hapter 140: Uninvited Presence-1
“Sir… Ms. Maya,” James’s voice carried through, measured but insistent, slicing through the air. “
Dinner is served, and Madam awaits your presence.”
Maya froze, a flush creeping up her neck as her eyes widened in mortified panic. She pressed a hand to her lips, stifling a laugh that threatened to ruin the moment entirely.
Damien’s eyes darkened, lips curving into a slow, amused smirk. He pulled back just slightly, tilting his head toward her, his voice a low growl edged with teasing. “Looks like we’ve been summoned, my queen. But don’t worry… this isn’t over.”
Maya’s shoulders shook as she let out a breathy laugh, still catching her composure, while Damien’s hand lingered possessively at her waist as they reluctantly separated from the bed, the heat between them still humming in the air.
They straightened themselves quickly-Damien tugging at his shirt with that effortless arrogance, while Maya smoothed her dress, desperately trying to chase the pink from her cheeks.
When Damien opened the door, James stood waiting with his usual composure, though the faint twitch at the corner of his mouth betrayed that he’d heard more than he let on.
“We’ll be right there,” Damien said smoothly.
James nodded, retreating down the hall. Damien glanced back into the room just in time to catch Maya approaching, her voice low. “Let’s go.”
He only hummed in response, closing the door behind them. His hand found its familiar place at the small of her back, guiding her with a subtle, possessive touch. Maya’s pulse still raced, her skin tingling where his fingers pressed firmly, insistently, as they made their way to the dining room.
Dahlia was already seated when they arrived, poised like a queen at the head of the table. The chandelier above gleamed against the polished silverware, every detail perfect-except for the sharpness in her gaze as it flicked from Damien to Maya.
“You’re late,” she said coolly, her voice carrying the soft bite of disapproval.
Damien smirked faintly, unbothered, pulling out a chair for Maya before lowering himself beside her. “Forgive us, Mother,” he drawled. “We were… occupied.”
Maya nearly choked, heat rushing to her face.
Dahlia’s eyes lingered on her for a heartbeat too long-sharp, assessing, but a hidden warmth flickered behind them. A faint, delicate smile threatened at the corner of her lips, quickly masked as she lifted her wine glass with flawless grace. “Occupied, indeed,” she said smoothly, her voice
Chapter 140 Uninvited Presence-1
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calm, though inside, a tiny thrill made her heart skip-a secret flutter she was determined not to
show.
Then her attention shifted. “Where’s Harper and Nicholas?”
Kim, standing nearby, stepped forward. “We saw Ms. Lin heading toward the dock earlier, Madam,
with Mr. Ashcroft not far behind.”
Dahlia raised an eyebrow, tilting her glass thoughtfully. “The dock? What are those two after now?”
Damien cut in casually, his tone laced with amusement. “Maybe figuring out their unfinished
business.”
Dahlia smirked, setting her glass down with a soft click. “If that’s the case, let’s not wait. We’ll
begin.”
Dinner was served, the three of them eating in relative quiet until Dahlia finally broke it. Her tone shifted, softer, though no less commanding.
“Son,” she began, “I spoke to your father. I’ve already filled him in on what happened.” Her gaze slid deliberately to Maya.
“Maya, sweetheart,” Dahlia said gently, her voice threaded with a maternal warmth that echoed the bond she once shared with Maya’s mother. “Dominic would love to meet you and Jaime. We’d be so happy to welcome you both to the house when we return. And if it’s easier, we can stop by and pick Jaime up ourselves.”
Maya blinked, momentarily caught off guard. Her eyes shifted between Damien and Dahlia, but when they met Dahlia’s, she felt the sincerity and warmth radiating from her words. A small, hesitant smile tugged at her lips, and she gave a quiet nod. “Um… yeah… that should be fine.” Damien shifted slightly toward her, his gaze soft and steady, a quiet intensity in his eyes. Beneath the table, his hand found hers, fingers brushing in a subtle, possessive touch. “I’ll have Monroe bring Jaime to the manor,” he said, voice calm but firm, every word leaving no room for doubt.
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Cedella
Cedella is a passionate storyteller known for her bold romantic and spicy novels that keep readers hooked from the very first chapter. With a flair for crafting emotionally intense plots and unforgettable characters, she blends love, desire, and drama into every story she writes. Cedella’s storytelling style is immersive and addictive—perfect for fans of heated romances and heart-pounding twists.